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Dinner · Part 3 of 3: Tips & recipe card

Slow Cooker Sausage and Potatoes: A Hearty One-Pot Meal Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

A close-up view of sliced smoked sausage and tender cubed potatoes in a rich broth inside a black slow cooker.
Prep
Cook
Total
Serves
4
Includes 5 min resting

Tips for success

To enhance the flavor further, consider adding a few cloves of smashed garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary during the final hour of cooking.

These aromatics will infuse the broth without overpowering the main components of the dish. Remember to remove any woody herb stems before serving to ensure a pleasant texture.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove a small portion of the potatoes and mash them before stirring them back into the liquid. This simple technique provides a natural, rustic body to the sauce that perfectly complements the hearty nature of the smoked sausage and potatoes.

Variations

  • Spicy Sausage Version: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce during the assembly phase for a spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the sausage.
  • Vegetable Medley: Incorporate sliced carrots or diced onions alongside the potatoes for added texture and sweetness, ensuring all vegetables are cut to a similar size for even cooking.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezer
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary, or in the microwave until heated through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the food has cooled to room temperature, but do not leave it out for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.

The flavors often develop further when refrigerated, making it an excellent candidate for the next day.

This dish is perfect for preparing in advance. You can brown the sausage and chop the potatoes the night before, storing them in separate containers in the refrigerator.

When you are ready to cook, simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and start the cycle, saving valuable time during busy mornings.

Serving ideas

Serve this dish hot, directly from the slow cooker, to keep the potatoes and sausage at the ideal temperature.

A simple side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad with a sharp vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sausage and the earthiness of the potatoes.

For a complete presentation, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives. A crusty piece of sourdough bread is also an excellent addition, perfect for mopping up the savory, reduced broth that settles at the bottom of the bowl after the meal is enjoyed.

Frequently asked questions

Can this dish be made in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, it can be prepared in a large Dutch oven on the stovetop. Brown the sausage, add the potatoes and broth, then cover and simmer on low heat until the potatoes are tender, usually about 30 to 40 minutes. Keep a close eye on the liquid levels.
Why is it important to brown the sausage first?
Browning the sausage triggers the Maillard reaction, which creates deep, complex flavors and a pleasant texture that cannot be achieved by simply boiling or steaming the meat. This process is essential for the overall quality of the dish.
Can different types of potatoes be used?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are best because they maintain their shape during long cooking times. Avoid starchy russet potatoes, as they tend to fall apart and become mushy in the slow cooker.
Recipe card

Slow Cooker Sausage and Potatoes: A Hearty One-Pot Meal

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4
A close-up view of sliced smoked sausage and tender cubed potatoes in a rich broth inside a black slow cooker.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
  • 1.5 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and brown the pieces on both sides until they develop a deep, golden-brown crust. This browning step adds significant flavor to the final dish.
  2. Place the cubed potatoes into the slow cooker. Add the browned sausage slices on top of the potatoes. Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring everything is evenly moistened, and sprinkle generously with cracked black pepper.
  3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours until the potatoes are fork-tender and the broth has thickened into a flavorful, savory sauce. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Contains: sulfites

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories
420
Protein
18 g
Carbohydrates
35 g
Fat
22 g
Fiber
3.5 g
Sugar
2 g
Sodium
850 mg
Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.
Recipe by Clara Weller (pen name) · Allquickyrecipes · https://recipes.allquickyrecipes.com/slow-cooker-sausage-and-potatoes-2/part-3